Limited Brands Ups Outlook, Lowers Sales Forecast

NEW YORK (AP) — Limited Brands on Monday said it may break even or post a smaller loss than originally forecast in the third quarter but expects lower October sales.

The operator of stores including Victoria's Secret and Bath & Body Works now expects to report between breakeven earnings and a loss of 4 cents per share for the third quarter. Its previous estimate was a loss of 7 to 12 cents per share.

The company, based in Columbus, Ohio, also said it expects October sales at stores open at least a year to fall by "low-to-mid single digits." It previously forecast flat sales from a year ago.

Limited Brands Inc. will release third-quarter earnings on Nov. 19.

Its shares tumbled $1.54, or 8 percent, to $18 in after-hours trading after closing Monday's regular session up 27 cents at $19.49.